ASUS today announced the new A88XM-A and A55BM-A/USB3 motherboards, the first from any manufacturer to support new Socket FM2+ APUs (Accelerated Processing Units) from AMD. The A88XM-A with AMD A88X chipset and A55BM-A/USB3 with A55 chipset are both Micro-ATX motherboards for existing AMD ‘Richland’ and ‘Trinity’ FM2 APUs, and are hardware-ready for upcoming AMD ‘Kaveri’ FM2+ APUs that support DirectX 11.1 and PCI Express 3.0 natively.

ASUS is committed to supporting the latest in PC technology. The new FM2+ motherboards offer customers the very latest in motherboard design, with the added flexibility of both backward and forward compatibility* with AMD APUs.Exclusive ASUS technology

Both motherboards also feature an easy-to-use UEFI BIOS, Fan Xpert fan control for a quiet environment and increased cooling efficiency, and exclusive ASUS 5X Protection technology for enhanced reliability and durability. DIGI+ VRM voltage regulation ensures precise digital control over power delivery to the processor for reduced energy consumption and enhanced stability, while resettable fuses protect I/O ports and DIMM slots from short circuits and voltage spikes.

Electrostatic-discharge guards also protect sensitive components from electromagnetic interference and high-quality solid capacitors, industry-rated for a lifespan for over 50 years of continuous use under typical operating conditions (at 65 degrees Centigrade), last more than twice as long as traditional electrolytic capacitors. Additionally, chromium oxide-plated stainless steel rear I/O subjected to 72-hour spray salt endurance tests for superior corrosion resistance and an increased lifespan.